Did She Mention My Name/Back Here On Earth (Bear Family)

Performer: Gordon Lightfoot
Distributor: E1 Distribution (USA)

Notes: 2 LPs on 1 CD: DID SHE MENTION MY NAME (1968)/BACK HERE ON EARTH (1969). Every '60s singer/songwriter of note expanded their instrumental approach as time went on, and Lightfoot was no exception. For his third album, he worked with John Simon (who would handle the Band and Big Brother), and occasionally used low-key orchestration. Though a tad more erratic than his earlier efforts, his songwriting remained remarkably consistent. His characteristically bright, uplifting outlook became more diverse as well, allowing for the chilling "Black Day in July" (written in response to the 1967 Detroit riots), the odd "Pussywillows, Cat-Tails" (an unusual and successful detour into baroque orchestral pop), and the ambiguous sobriety of "Does Your Mother Know." Back Here on Earth, the second half of this two-fer, was a retrenchment of sorts, recorded in Nashville with a three-piece acoustic lineup and a more countrified approach. It's not quite as outstanding as his first three albums, lacking highlights on the order of "Early Mornin' Rain" or "Black Day in July." Lightfoot never offered weak material on his United Artists efforts, however, and Back Here on Earth is still a very solid set. ~ Richie Unterberger

In the '60s and '70s, Canadian songsmith Gordon Lightfoot achieved the perfect marriage of folk and pop. His rich baritone was mellifluous enough to carry the elegantly catchy melodies of songs that possessed considerable substance beneath their undeniable pop hooks. He began at the more mainstream end of the folk camp, but by the '70s, he transcended the genre and became a popular figure with both commercial appeal and aesthetic value. Bob Dylan himself has expressed an abiding interest in Lightfoot's output.

Shipping or Dimension weight in pounds: 0.3

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